Best Philadelphia to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Philadelphia to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,985 mile move from Pennsylvania to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 Philadelphia to San Jose moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is EverSafe Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Philadelphia compared to San Jose. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Philadelphia to San Jose Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1EverSafe Moving Co.9.509.5Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Pineapple Movers9.449.62Authorized For HHGContact
3D&L Movers9.349.36ActiveContact
4Careful Movers9.318.63Authorized For HHGContact
5banning moving9.209.47Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Philadelphia to San Jose

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,985 miles from Philadelphia, PA to San Jose, CA will cost on average $4,320 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Philadelphia to San Jose move is roughly $10,449. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,895300 ft³9.65
1 Bedroom$4,320450 ft³9.60
2 Bedrooms$7,162750 ft³9.55
3 Bedrooms$10,4491100 ft³9.50
4 Bedrooms$15,1191600 ft³9.45
5+ Bedrooms$16,9191800 ft³9.40
*Please note: These Pennsylvania to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Pennsylvania & California. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed PA to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Philadelphia guide.

Compare the 5 Best Philadelphia to San Jose Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

EverSafe Moving Co. Logo

EverSafe Moving Co.

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,941+ data points

8701 Torresdale Ave

Philadelphia, PA, 19136

About EverSafe Moving Co.

Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long-distance Movers
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261303 / 771755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Pineapple Movers Logo

Pineapple Movers

Exceptional9.44/10
based on 701+ data points

Collingswood, NJ, 08108

About Pineapple Movers

Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2023, they...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3579435 / 1208543

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
D&L Movers Logo

D&L Movers

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,789+ data points

1563 Bahama Way

Campbell, CA, 95008

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
3
Careful Movers Logo

Careful Movers

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

3641 Haven Ave C

Menlo Park, CA, 94025

About Careful Movers

With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
b

banning moving

Exceptional9.20/10
based on 437+ data points

2224 Apple Way

Bensalem, PA, 19020

About banning moving

Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers, the...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3350149 / 1070919

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,675 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Philadelphia vs. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can feel like stepping into the unknown, but familiarizing yourself with new surroundings doesn't have to be daunting. This guide is designed to help you easily transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & San Jose, CA . By identifying the neighborhoods in Philly you know and love, we’ll pinpoint their San Jose counterparts, making your move a little less mysterious.

PhiladelphiaSan JoseHow They're Similar
Rittenhouse SquareRose GardenHistoric, affluent area
FishtownWillow GlenTrendy, walkable, artsy
ManayunkLos GatosCharming, small-town feel
Old CityDowntown San JoseRich in history, vibrant culture
University CitySilicon ValleyTech hub, educational institutions
Northern LibertiesJapantownHip, culturally rich
Center CitySantana RowUpscale shopping and dining
West PhiladelphiaAlmaden ValleySpacious, family-friendly
South PhiladelphiaCambrian ParkDiverse, community-oriented
East FallsWillow GlenPicturesque, with historic homes

If you're charmed by Rittenhouse Square's historic and affluent vibe, San Jose’s Rose Garden neighborhood will likely capture your heart with its elegant, historical homes and beautifully manicured gardens. For those drawn to the artsy and vibrant atmosphere of Fishtown, Willow Glen offers a similar sense of community, with its walkable streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and mural-adorned walls. Moreover, if the rich cultural tapestry and historical significance of Old City are what you love, Downtown San Jose provides an equally compelling experience with landmarks like the San Jose Museum of Art and the bustling San Pedro Square Market, offering a blend of the old and new that enriches the urban living experience.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Philadelphia to San Jose

Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of Philadelphia, PA to San Jose, CA , highlighting both the advantages and challenges of the transition. The purpose of the charts is to offer a clear visual representation, allowing you to consider every aspect of the move carefully.

CONs
PROs
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Higher crime rates
  • Harsh winters
  • Lower average income
  • Less tech opportunities
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Milder climate
  • Higher average income
  • More tech opportunities
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Less historical sites
  • High cost of living
  • Fewer sports teams
  • Less food diversity
Philadelphia, PA iconPhiladelphia, PA
  • Rich history
  • More affordable housing
  • Better sports culture
  • Diverse cuisine

Moving from Philadelphia to San Jose introduces you to a city with a significantly lower crime rate, offering a sense of safety and peace. San Jose’s mild climate is a welcome change from the harsh winters of Philadelphia, allowing for year-round outdoor activities at places like the Guadalupe River Park. The city’s booming tech industry also promises ample opportunity for career advancement in companies like Google and Apple. However, it's important to be prepared for a higher cost of living. The unique charm of Philadelphia, from its rich history encapsulated within the Independence National Historical Park to its vibrant sports culture, will be missed. Nevertheless, San Jose offers a new and diverse culinary scene, albeit less varied than Philadelphia's, with establishments such as Santana Row providing excellent dining experiences. Transitioning between these cities thus presents a mix of new opportunities and challenges, each contributing to the fabric of your new life.

Philadelphia vs. San Jose Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia & San Jose. Understanding the food scene is crucial as food greatly enriches the local culture and lifestyle. This comparison will enlighten you about what culinary delights await in your new city.

PhiladelphiaSan Jose
Most iconic local food itemCheesesteakPho
Most popular meat dishRoast Pork SandwichCarne Asada
Most popular street food itemPretzelTacos
Most popular vegan foodSeitan CheesesteakVegetable Pho
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Reading Terminal Market
  • Pat's King of Steaks
  • Geno's Steaks
  • La Foret Restaurant
  • Original Joe's San Jose
  • Pho Ha Noi
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Philadelphia, the beloved cheesesteak is a must-try, with establishments like Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks serving as iconic spots for this hearty sandwich. For those looking for a vegan take, seitan cheesesteaks offer a delicious alternative. On the other hand, San Jose's food scene is vibrant with flavors from around the world, notably in its variety of Vietnamese restaurants, such as Pho Ha Noi, where pho reigns supreme. The city also prides itself on its health-conscious offerings and abundant food truck events, adding to its dynamic culinary landscape.

Philadelphia vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite eatery can be a cornerstone in making a new city feel like home. This comparison between top Philadelphia restaurants and their close equivalents in San Jose is designed to ease your culinary transition. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this guide will help you discover your next go-to spot.

PhiladelphiaSan JoseWhat You'll Love
ZahavOrchard City KitchenCreative small plates and a similar upscale vibe.
Pat's King of SteaksAmato’s CheesesteaksAuthentic Philly cheesesteak experience on the West Coast.
Vetri CucinaDi Matteo'sQuality Italian cuisine with a focus on pasta dishes.
Reading Terminal MarketSan Pedro Square MarketDiverse food options in a lively market atmosphere.
Federal DonutsPsycho DonutsInnovative and unconventional donuts, capturing a similar cult following.
SurayaDishdashMiddle Eastern cuisine with an emphasis on quality and tradition.
El VezMezcalAuthentic Mexican food with a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
La Colombe Coffee RoastersChromatic CoffeeFocus on high-quality, specialty coffee beans and brewing methods.
Pizzeria BeddiaPizza Bocca LupoNeapolitan-style pizzas with a similar focus on quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
Franklin FountainTreatbotUnique and inventive ice cream flavors, providing a modern twist on classic desserts.

Exploring the culinary scene in a new city can be one of the most exciting aspects of a move. For those transitioning from Philadelphia to San Jose, you'll find comfort in discovering establishments like Amato’s Cheesesteaks, offering a slice of Philly with its authentic cheesesteak experience. Meanwhile, Orchard City Kitchen provides an innovative dining experience with creative dishes reminiscent of Zahav's reputation for modern Israeli cuisine in Philadelphia. Diving deeper into the dessert scene, Treatbot in San Jose stands out with its diverse and inventive ice cream flavors, echoing the joy and experimentation found at Franklin Fountain. These selections demonstrate that while the coast may change, the high standard and variety of culinary experiences remain constant.

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Philadelphia vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning your move, it's crucial to compare Real Estate in Philadelphia, PA and San Jose, CA as it's a key factor in relocation. Understanding the differences in Housing costs, styles, and lifestyles will help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonPhiladelphiaSan Jose
Typical Architecture StyleColonial and VictorianModern and Ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHistoric details, proximity to parksEnergy efficiency, tech upgrades

When exploring housing in Philadelphia and San Jose, you'll find stark contrasts in costs and styles reflecting the local lifestyles and economies. Philadelphia's historic Colonial and Victorian homes offer character and detail, often with a closer proximity to vibrant city parks and a high walkability score, making it ideal for those valuing a mix of tradition and urban convenience. On the other hand, San Jose's housing market is significantly pricier, reflecting its position in Silicon Valley. Homes here lean towards modern and ranch styles, with listings highlighting tech upgrades and energy efficiency, catering to the high-tech lifestyle. Despite its lower walkability, San Jose’s urban lifestyle score is higher, indicating a different set of amenities and preferences among its residents.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA

1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.

2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.

3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.

Philadelphia vs. San Jose Weather Considerations

Moving from Philadelphia, PA to San Jose, CA significantly changes your daily weather experience. Understanding how the climate and weather patterns vary between these cities helps you prepare for a new lifestyle. This comparison lends insight into what you can expect year-round.

Summer icon
87°F / 68°F

Philadelphia, PA

82°F / 58°F

San Jose, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
40°F / 25°F

Philadelphia, PA

60°F / 42°F

San Jose, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Philadelphia, PA

15.5

San Jose, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Philadelphia, PA

0

San Jose, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPhiladelphiaSan Jose
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, HurricanesEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Philadelphia to San Jose, you'll enjoy more sunny days and milder winters, a welcome change for those wary of the cold. However, the higher average humidity in San Jose might surprise newcomers, despite California's reputation for dry heat. Additionally, while Philadelphia grapples with snowstorms and the occasional hurricane, San Jose's residents must be prepared for earthquakes and wildfires. Air quality improvement in San Jose could be a significant benefit for those with respiratory concerns, although both cities share common allergens like pollen and mold.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to San Jose

When planning your move from Philadelphia, PA to San Jose, CA, it's crucial to understand how the financial aspects of life compare in each city. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in the cost of living and manage your finances more effectively in your new home.

ComparisonPhiladelphiaSan Jose
Avg. Household Income$52,899$126,377
Cost of Living Index126.5156.1
State Income Tax3.079.3
Avg. Property Tax0.990.79
Avg. Sales Tax89.25
Top 3 IndustriesEducation, Health Services, ManufacturingTechnology, Manufacturing, Retail
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyHigher than averageLower than average
HomelessnessSignificantConsiderable

Transitioning from Philadelphia to San Jose, you'll notice a significant leap in the average household income, which reflects the high-cost nature of living in San Jose. The contrast in cost of living indices is stark, with San Jose being more than twice as expensive as Philadelphia. This means your money might not stretch as far, especially with higher sales and income taxes. However, the economic opportunities in tech-centric San Jose could compensate for these costs. Both cities grapple with homelessness, though the affluence and lower poverty levels in San Jose might not make this immediately apparent. Understanding these financial dynamics will be key to making your move as smooth as possible.

Philadelphia vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Philadelphia, PA to San Jose, CA, understanding the local dynamics is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Philadelphia & San Jose , giving you insights into the community you'll be joining.

PhiladelphiaSan Jose
Political Make-upMostly DemocraticHeavily Democratic
Local PoliticsCity Council & Mayorship central to local governanceStrong Mayor-Council government system
ReligionDiverse, with significant Catholic and Protestant communitiesVery diverse, including a large number of non-religious residents

Both Philadelphia and San Jose have a predominantly Democratic political makeup, though San Jose is noted for its particularly strong Democratic leaning. The governance structure in San Jose operates on a strong Mayor-Council system, contrasting with Philadelphia's balance between its City Council and Mayor. Religion-wise, while Philadelphia has a noticeable proportion of Catholic and Protestant followers, San Jose stands out for its religious diversity, including a considerable segment of the population identifying as non-religious. These aspects will give you a fundamental understanding of the societal fabric you're about to immerse yourself in.

Philadelphia vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Relocating from Philadelphia, PA to San Jose, CA means adjusting to a new lifestyle, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This guide provides a comparison to better understand the daily commute and traffic as well as the transportation options between Philadelphia & San Jose . It will help you navigate your new surroundings with ease.

ComparisonPhiladelphiaSan Jose
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3230
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Possible but challengingDifficult

While the average commute times between Philadelphia and San Jose are quite similar, you'll find a noticeable difference in traffic congestion and public transit availability. Philadelphia, with its more robust public transit system, makes it somewhat easier to get around without a car compared to San Jose. In San Jose, the reliance on a car is more pronounced due to its spread-out nature and less dense public transit network. This means you'll likely need to consider a car for your daily commute in San Jose, whereas in Philadelphia, you might have managed using only public transportation or a combination of walking and transit.

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